Christian Stuani and Olivier Giroud in Ernesto Valverde’s wishlist

Barcelona have shortlisted two strikers, and are in the utmost necessity to land one in January. 

Ernesto Valverde has reportedly shortlisted two strikers as the reigning La Liga Champions continuously search for a backup striker in the January transfer market.

Paco Alcacer, who moved to Borussia Dortmund on-loan has blossomed for the German outfit by bagging 13 goals this term. Upon his spectacular start to his Signal Iduna Park life, the German club were quick to handle him a permanent deal which was secured during the starting stages of the winter transfer window.

On the other hand, Munir El Haddadi served a backup to Luis Suarez during the first part of the season. But an offer with guaranteed playing time was too good to turn down for the striker from Seville who are having a very good season.

Ernesto Valverde is not happy to enter the latter part of the season with no backup for Luis Suarez. It is no doubt that the Uruguyuan is not prone to injuries, but considering the Copa Del Rey road, the Blaugrana are looking for alternate options.

Previously, they were linked with Luka Jovic, but the reliable Spanish publication Sport reports that the La Liga outfit is looking for one of Christian Stuani or Oliver Giroud to play second fiddle to the 32-year-old. It is also understood that the Spaniard is more keen on Stuani, with Oliver Giroud in the list too.

There is no doubt about the quality of Stuani who has been the main man for Girona over the last two years. Having netted 21 goals in the debut campaign last term, he has been able to add another 12 to his name this season.

However, he has always struggled to break into the national team which consists of Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani, playing as a backup to these strikers in all these years. He has more than 150 goals to his name in club football from 400 appearances which is a pretty decent record.

On the other hand, Olivier Giroud has been significant for the Blues since his arrival in January. Antonio Conte used him during the second part of the season. His link-up play with Eden Hazard gave a hinder of hope to get back into the top four, but they lost too many points early on in the season.

Playing a huge part in the World Cup success of France, Giroud is a great player who can find his feet in selected setups. He was able to thrive under Conte, but Sarri’s system does not suit him to the fullest. If Barcelona are in need of changing their game plan to earn a nick a point or three, he will play a huge part in it.

It will be interesting to see who the Catalans will sign during this transfer window as the fans eagerly wait for an announcement soon or rather than later.